Mariners Add Purkey to Football Coaching Staff

CASTINE, Maine – Maine Maritime Academy Head Football Coach Chris McKenney has announced the addition of Kyle Purkey to the Mariners coaching staff.

Purkey, a 2013 graduate from James Madison University, will join the Mariners as the team's Inside Linebackers Coach and Special Teams Coordinator.

"My wife Jess and I are very fortunate and excited for the opportunity to join the Mariners family in Castine," said Purkey. "I am looking forward to developing forward-thinking leaders on and off the field."

"Maine Maritime is a special place and I cannot wait to welcome special student-athletes into this program in the future," added Purkey. "It's time to go to work!"

Last season, Purkey served as the Defensive/Special Teams Quality Control Assistant at James Madison University, helping lead the Dukes to a 14-1 record and an appearance in the NCAA Division I FCS National Championship game. From February 2015 to May 2017, Purkey served on the coaching staff at McDaniel College which ranked fifth in the Centennial Conference in total defense and third in net punt.

During the 2014 season Purkey assisted with special teams and wide receivers during his first stint at JMU. Purkey broke into coaching in 2013 as an Assistant Wide Receivers Coach at Stevenson University.

"We are excited to add Kyle to our staff as a linebacker and special teams Coach," said McKenney. "He is a strong teacher and brings great experience on defense and special teams from three different colleges and universities. We look forward to Kyle working with our linebackers and bringing energy and excitement to our special teams."

Purkey earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Kinesiology from JMU in 2013, before earning a Master of Science in Exercise Science and Physical Education from McDaniel College in 2017.